The brothers of Abu Sayeed, the first martyr of the July mass uprising, have demanded the highest punishment for those accused in the crimes against humanity case filed over his killing.
While speaking to media on Thursday before entering the tribunal Abu Sayeed's elder brother Abu Hossain said, ''We demand that all individuals directly and indirectly involved in this killing be given the maximum punishment of death and that the verdict be implemented swiftly.''
He added, ''Abu Sayeed, a brilliant student of Begum Rokeya University and the first martyr of the July uprising, was brutally killed in police firing in front of the university on July 16, 2024. Nearly two years have passed. Today, the verdict in this case will be delivered at the International Crimes Tribunal.''
Expressing hope for justice, he said, ''We expect that, based on proper investigation and in accordance with state law, the correct judgment will be delivered and the punishment of the guilty will be executed without delay.''
Security was tightened in and around the tribunal premises ahead of the verdict. Family members of Abu Sayed arrived at the tribunal in the morning.
On June 30, 2025, the ICT took cognisance of charges against 30 people, including former BRUR vice chancellor Hasibur Rashid and former Rangpur Metropolitan Police (RMP) commissioner Md Moniruzzaman.
They face charges of murder, attempted murder, superior command responsibility, abetment, and complicity in crimes against humanity.
The ICT investigation agency submitted a charge sheet against them on June 24, 2025.
Of the 30 accused, 24 are absconding while six are behind bars. Those who are in custody are former assistant sub-inspector Amir Hossain and former constable Sujan Chandra Roy, former BRUR proctor Shariful Islam, banned Bangladesh Chhatra League leader Imran Chowdhury, Rafiul Hasan Russel and Anwar Pervez.
